Water sustainability in agriculture

Abstract

Water is of fundamental importance to agriculture and has significant varied effects on agriculture and beyond globally. A cross-section of interdisciplinary talks from academia, industry, farming, research centers and federal agencies are presented and the Q&A sessions following each module reflected on the issues raised by speakers and audience.

This volume provides an excellent summary of the status of—and challenges inherent in achieving—water sustainability in agriculture. We have a long way to go—we are only in the foothills of Mount Everest. There is a need for more agricultural product through increased yield using less water, a smaller agricultural footprint on water, and an integrated systems approach on national, regional and international scales. We must employ all available tools, including engineering, the physical sciences and the biosciences, while addressing environmental and societal issues.